The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Deal du Jour: Mandee Yellow Trench

Yellow. It's bright, it's happy and it's one of our favorite colors! Yet even we, the style zealous, understand that in the realm of fashion, yellow can also be overwhelming.

But fear not, for the key to wearing yellow is to find a shade that's right for you, pair it with the proper duds, and administer the proper dosage. Easier said that done? Check out this post at youlookfab.com, where professional stylist Angie holds your hand and shows you how it's done.

Once you've jumped that hurdle, let the fun begin with this mellow yellow swing-shaped trench. On sale at Mandee.com for just $27.49, this sunny coat will brighten your day—and keep more green in your wallet.

Yellow belted trench, $27.49 at Mandee.com

An Homage to the Balenciaga Blazer

BalenciagaSince making its appearance on runways in Paris this past March, the Balenciaga piped blazer has been called the must-have statement piece for winter among the fashion elite (props to designer Nicolas Ghesquière).

But with mile-long waiting lists and a pretty price of £1,300 (2,660.71 USD), you'd be hard-pressed to get your gloved hands on the real deal.

Fortunately, it's the funky-preppy styling that truly sets this look apart—an androgynous get-up marked by military, equestrian and ethnic references—and it can be effortlessly achieved with a few carefully selected items.

Here's how to do it:


  • Two words: Go thrifting. Scour your favorite secondhand shops for vintage blazers, ethnic print scarves and antique buttons.


  • Check your closet. Chances are you already own a blazer that you can dress up with the right scarf or update by sewing on those new buttons you scored at the thrift store.


  • Consider investing in a new blazer. This timeworn piece will take you far into the fashion future with ease, thus bringing down the eventual cost-per-wear.


If you opt to shop for a new blazer, here are four budget-friendlier homages to the original:




[1] Mango Tercio Jacket, $89
[2] J. Crew Double-faced wool Lexington jacket in gray, $250
[3] J. Crew Lexington jacket in ivory, $250
[4] Lux Exeter blazer, $68